How Magicians Invented the Impossible and Learned to Disappear
Jim Steinmeyer’s 2003 book is a journey through the rich history of magicians, their creations and their quest for the impossible. Starting with Houdini’s famous – and infamous – illusion of making an elephant disappear, Jim traces the various inventions in “optical conjuring,” from Pepper’s Ghost to Tobin’s Proteus Cabinet, and the famous wonders at Egyptian Hall. The book discusses the creative masters of the art including David Devant, Charles Morritt and Guy Jarrett. The has received rave reviews. Publishers Weekly hailed this Los Angeles Times bestseller as “a find.” Magician Teller, of Penn and Teller, reviewed it in the New York Times and called it “a loving celebration,” concluding that “no author has ever better conveyed magic’s joys, terrors and longings.” Published by Carroll and Graf. 351 pages, plus index, 8 pages of photos, author’s diagrams and magicians’ portraits by William Stout. (If you would like your copy autographed please send an email to us.)
